Location: Columbus
Top Things to do in Columbus
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10 Things to do Good for Kids in Columbus That You Shouldn't Miss
Ohio’s capital city is full of beautiful neighborhoods, a critically acclaimed food scene and top-ranked attractions. This creative-minded destination offers something for everyone. Families will enjoy COSI, the nationally known science center, as well as the Columbus zoo and its neighboring water park. Art lovers will savor the collections at the Columbus Museum of Art and revel in Gallery Hop, a monthly celebration in the Short North Art District. Columbus is a city that invites exploration.
Restaurants in Columbus
1. Ohio Theater
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 504 reviews
Broadway shows are performed in this historic theater.
Reviewed By rs49ss47 - Germantown, United States
Do you like seeing great performances? Do you enjoy visiting older, historic buildings? You can satisfy both desires by coming to this beautiful building in downtown Columbus. My family and I have attended many great events at this theatre over many years. Seating capacity is in excess of 2,500 but for particularly popular events the tickets go quickly. I remember as a child being particularly excited to see the wonderful organ which is still in use today. So many big name stars have performed here that it would be impossible to name them all. Much of the beautiful interior is close to its' original grandeur. Among the big draws are the Columbus Symphony, ( really worth seeing ) and BalletMet. One of our favorites was The Nutcracker when our children were young. No matter what the event is a trip here is one you will not regret. Underground parking is available across the street.
2. Supreme Court of Ohio
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 41 reviews
This historic 1930s building has been home to the Supreme Court of Ohio since reopening in 2004 after a meticulous four-year renovation. The doors are open to all and the public is encouraged to visit and admire firsthand the beautiful Art Deco building and its array of murals, bronze sculptures, mosaics, and symbols that adorn the interior.
Reviewed By alwaysmoretosee2015 - Dublin, United States
Anyone can arrange a free tour of the Ohio Supreme Court building thrugh their Civic Education department and my friends and I highly recommend doing so. It is full of amazing art works- murals, mosaics, sculptures, carvings and even a Chihuly! Our guide Mason was very knowledgeable and friendly. He told us stories about the building and explained how the court works in addition to pointing our amazing details in the ceilings, hallways and library.
3. Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 170 reviews
We do not have regular hours. We do tours by appointment only. Due to my employment situation we do tours in the evenings and weekends.
Reviewed By gerasimp2019
Steve is a wonderful person! I’ve come all the way from Bulgaria and so far I’ve enjoyed his museum the most in Columbus. The collection is really nice and the combination of his classic american cars from the 50-60s, his very rare license plates, signs and items is a perfect combo and creates an unforgettable experience. He knows his stuff and he will be glad to give you a tour.
4. Ohio Statehouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 450 reviews
Capitol building of Ohio.
Reviewed By Gerry963 - Schroon Lake, United States
We like to visit state capitols in our travels—they are always visitor-friendly and reveal a great deal about a state’s history, economy and culture in a short time. The Ohio Statehouse is no exception. Somewhat understated for a capitol on the outside, it is beautiful and grand on the inside. Our knowledgeable guide, Elaine, brought Ohio and the Statehouse to life in her ~45 minute tour (a crash course in all things Ohio that is well worth the time). It was an enjoyable and informative time. A suggestion to visitors: take careful notes about your path from your vehicle to the start of the tour—or leave a trail of bread crumbs—as the building and connected subterranean parking garage are rather confusing to navigate and not terribly well signed. The friendly Ohioans who work in the capitol know the place is a labyrinth and are approachable and helpful in getting you redirected.
5. Ohio History Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 242 reviews
The history of Ohio from the Ice Age to the present is chronicled inside this architecturally interesting concrete and glass structure, housing a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits on everything from ancient Indian cultures to industrial progress and archives documenting early settlers' daily lives. Current Exhibits Ohio–Champion of Sports 1950s: Building the American Dream Ohio Through Time World War I Era Display The Great Collections Experiment Follow the Flag Following in Ancient Footsteps Buildings, Places & Spaces The Nature of Ohio
Reviewed By S8954QBbarbarab - Columbus, United States
We were thrilled to partake in another Civil War weekend at the Ohio Village. Re -enactors set up camp and interacted with visitors, sutlers sold period toys and clothes, and a battle was held. There were some scheduled talks as well. They do this event I believe just every other year now so check it out the next opportunity as it is great for all ages.
6. Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,427 reviews
The Center of Science and Industry (COSI), located in Columbus, Ohio, is a dynamic, hands-on science center with more than 55 years of award-winning expertise in providing engaging, inspiring, and transforming learning experiences. From hands-on interactive exhibits in themed exhibition areas, and state-of-the-art planetarium, to traveling and education outreach programs, COSI delivers science and science educational experiences both in its building and far beyond its walls. With unprecedented and one-of-a-kind partnerships, including with the New York City-based American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), COSI has positioned itself as a national powerhouse museum with content and experiences for people of all ages. Located in Central Ohio, COSI stands as a leading cultural institution and destination attraction for regional, national, and international audiences. For more information on COSI's reopening and COVID-19 policies, please visit cosi.org.
Reviewed By JackieM125 - Toronto, Canada
COSI is definitely a place you have to visit, we were so impressed with how much there is to do and we could have easily spent a few days there. I loved how well laid out the center is so that you can easily go from exhibit to exhibit without getting lost in a maze. We loved the Dinosaur Gallery with awesome replicas, real and cast fossils. We entered Lost Egypt with its stunning artifacts including a real mummy and sarcophagus! The Oceans area is visually stunning, one side was like being on board an interactive submarine and the other side was a totally hands on Neptune themed water play area. It has to be seen to believed with all the watery, cavernous detail that kids and adults will love. A really cool area was Progress which depicted a life like reconstruction of a typical street corner during the turn of the 20th century. Then you turn the corner and the exact same street corner is updated to the 1950s. It was so interesting to experience how transportation, communication and technology have changed over the past century. Gadgets is a terrific hands on area with tonnes of experiments and simple machines. There are experiment labs that are first come first serve which book up quickly, so I recommend checking that out earlier in the visit. There is also Planetarium on the upper level showing spectacular films inside the 60 foot dome. It is a great place to take a mid visit break and check out any of the eye-catching, cinematic gems. There are some great outdoor areas to see too like the courtyard with any larger kid-friendly experiments and a beautiful, new playground just outside the main entrance. The amenities like the Atomic Cafe had tasty, healthy food options for all ages that were very reasonably priced and the huge gift shop had fun and educational mementos. Needless to say COSI does not disappoint and would definitely consider the annual membership as it is a great visit anytime of the year, rain or shine. Thanks COSI
7. German Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,140 reviews
A highway bridge over Interstate 70 is all that separates the German Village Historic District from downtown Columbus, but as one looks east from the interstate, the difference between old and new is glaring. A 20+ story structure sits just north of the interstate bridge, and just south, in German Village, no structure is higher than three stories. Five blocks south, the spire of St. Mary Church stands 197’ off the sidewalk and towers over everything around it. Structures and sidewalks are orange masonry, and many streets (about half) are still brick pavers. German Village does not have a recreated sense of history or kitschy Bavarian feel ~ rather, it is a neighborhood with architecture dating from the 1840s-1890s that has been preserved, and its use as a shared residential and commercial neighborhood has been maintained. People walk to their destinations, park on the street due to the overwhelming absence of driveways, and live life at a very pedestrian level. The neighborhood is extremely dense ~ very often only inches separate neighboring structures, and many structures were built for multi-family use. German Village is notably different because its appearance has changed so little.
Reviewed By CMHBeth - Columbus, United States
German Village is a quaint neighborhood to the immediate south of downtown Columbus. It’s historic buildings, houses and brick streets make for a lovely stroll all times of the year. The streets are lined with houses dating back to the late 1800s-early 1900s. There are restaurants, bars and coffee stops and shops sprinkled throughout could not be more diverse and charming. Schiller Park in the heart of the village should not be missed.
8. Nationwide Arena
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 592 reviews
The new home of the Columbus Blue Jackets ice hockey team.
Reviewed By 216TimG - Cleveland, United States
We go every January for a CBJ game, last year did the CBJ-Bob Seger double. An easy facility to navigate & a super staff all around.
9. Easton Town Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,266 reviews
In stark contrast to the old-country aura of German Village, Easton is the most modern neighborhood in the city, its architecturally contemporary town center drawing shoppers and tourists to an array of nationally and regionally known stores, plentiful restaurants and varied entertainment.
Reviewed By chinabeech
Easton is a great place to visit to shop, dine in any number of excellent resturants, our favorites are Brios, Bon Vie, McCormicks and Schmicks, Ocean Club and others. Shopping and theater are very nice.
10. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,607 reviews
A botanical landmark just two miles east of downtown Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features exotic plant collections and displays, seasonal exhibitions, outdoor gardens (including community and culinary gardens) and a variety of educational programming. All set within the 88-acre Franklin Park. Inspired by horticulture, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens elevates quality of life and connects the community through educational, cultural and social experiences. All ages can partake in a variety of special events and activities throughout the year. A full menu of classes, workshops and camps are offered in gardening, cooking, fine art and wellness. With its natural surroundings, both indoors and out, the Conservatory serves as a premier venue for special events and corporate gatherings.
Reviewed By 612BarbaraH612 - Worcester, United States
The botanical garden is a small portion of Franklin Park, so you have the opportunity to wander the grounds outside the botanical garden in addition to enjoying the outside gardens and indoor exhibits of the botanical garden itself. There's a very nice children's garden, a small formal garden area with a beautiful sculpture, an area devoted to community garden education, a conservatory with a variety of exhibits, a glass blowing demonstration, an excellent gift shop and a cafe. June 1, 2019 marked the start of a Chihuly exhibit that will be throughout the garden areas until the end of March, 2020. We just missed the Chihuly exhibit, but we will return to see it!
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